Author's Note: Please refer to the glossary at the end of each episode to understand the non-English words used in this episode. This was originally meant to be a published novel, but due to time and resource constraints, I'm publishing it here first. I hope you enjoy the sprinkle of culture throughout the Episodes! 

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The rapid tinkling of her silver anklets could be heard as Indumati rushed down the hallways. The floor was cool to the feet, but it did nothing to cool her racing heart and mind. 

The king had sent word to the queen that her son was showing signs of waking up. 

Buddhisen was finally awake. 

The doors to his chambers were ajar when she rushed in. Scents of sage and lavender swirled in the steam rising from a heated bronze bowl beside his bedside. 

The physician looked as pruned as he had always been. Still, his hands were steady as he checked her son's pulse points, occasionally grazing, prodding and poking around his neck. He tapped and patted away around his slowly rising and dipping chest. The physician was the best in all of Ayodhya, and Indumati was sure he was the best chance for her son's recovery.

Shifting her attention to her son, the dear lad's breathing seemed far more stable and calm. His eyebrows weren't knotted. Streams of sweat didn't fringe his forehead and neck. His complexion wasn't as pale as before. But most importantly, there were slight movements underneath his eyelids.

Indumati clutched her pallu, her breathing gaining an erratic rhythm. 

But then, a large, familiar, warm hand gently caressed her head. 

"Worry not, Maharani. You gave birth to a healthy boy, full of vitality. Just like you. He will awake soon."

Her husband's gentle reassurances in his soothing baritone pacified the turbulent heart of a mother and unsteady hands that helplessly grasped onto a fabric. 

King Padmasen was as tender as he was unshakable, especially in his beliefs. She leaned onto him for his strength and for his warmth.   

The physician's movements, however, grabbed the attention of the parents. 

"Maharaj, maharani," said the physician. "It is my honour and pleasure to inform you that the very worst is over. The prince should gain consciousness anytime before the next sun cycle."

He smiled at them.

Indumati's knees weakened slightly with relief. Her steps staggered, but the secure grip of her husband's arms guided her safely to her son. 

Her son would awaken soon.

All of her diligence in caring for the prince had finally shown its consequences. 

Buddhisen's vibrancy will colour her darkened walls. His passion will revive her morose heart. His spirit will lift hers. 

Soon enough.

She patted her belly.

Soon enough, there will be another spark beside him.

[Footnotes / Glossary]

Ayodhya = Ancient Indian city in the kingdom of Kosala, currently also a city in North of India.

Pallu = the loose end of a sari (the Indian constume) that's draped over the shoulders